50 Best Korean Movies on Netflix for Binge Watching in 2024

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Over-dramatic characters, thrilling plots and calming visuals—you guessed it right—must be a Korean movie knocking at your door. Head over to Netflix right now to find these best-watched Korean movies.

From gripping thrillers and heart-wrenching dramas to innovative horror and charming romances, the best Korean movies on Netflix promise a cinematic journey like no other. Join me as I guide you through a curated list of must-watch Korean films that will leave you captivated and eager for more.

Best Korean Movies on Netflix in 2024

Korean movies and dramas have started to rule the world with their creative storytelling and entertainment, and the industry is blooming with rising filmmakers and artists. The culture, the language and the traditions have become a sheer part of pop culture now. As much as the raging success, they deserve it all.

The Oscar winner Bong Joon-ho, the director of Parasite, once expressed that the second we move past the barrier of subtitles, we will be exposed to a ton of amazing movies. And here we are, constantly in awe of the Korean movies, and can’t get enough of it.

Best Korean action movies on Netflix

The Roundup (2022)

Cast: Ma Dong-seok, Son Suk-ku, Choi Gwi-hwa, Park Ji-hwan, and Heo Dong-won
IMDb Rating: 6.8

“The Roundup” follows a tough detective and his team as they pursue a ruthless criminal who has fled to another country. It’s a high-energy action film with intense fight scenes and a gripping storyline.

Kill Boksoon (2023)

Cast: Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, Kim Si-a, Esom, and Koo Kyo-hwan
IMDb Rating: 6.6

“Kill Boksoon” follows Gil Boksoon, a skilled contract killer who’s also a single mom. She juggles her dangerous job and raising her teenage daughter, facing tough choices and challenges along the way. It’s a mix of action and drama that’ll keep you hooked.

Veteran (2015)

Cast: Hwang Jung-min, Yoo Ah-in, Yoo Hae-jin, Oh Dal-su, Jang Yoon-ju
IMDb Rating: 7

“Veteran” is about a tough detective who goes after a wealthy and corrupt heir. The cat-and-mouse chase between the determined cop and the arrogant businessman leads to intense and thrilling moments.

Night in Paradise (2021)

Cast: Uhm Tae-goo, Jeon Yeo-been, Cha Seung-won, Lee Ki-young, Park Ho-san
IMDb Rating: 6.7

“Night in Paradise” tells the story of a gangster who escapes to Jeju Island after a tragedy. There, he meets a terminally ill woman, and their encounter leads to unexpected and emotional turns, It’s a slow burner with a few great action scenes in the middle.

Steel Rain (2017)

Cast: Jung Woo-sung, Kwak Do-won, Kim Kap-soo, Kim Eui-sung, and Lee Kyung-young
IMDb Rating: 7.1

“Steel Rain” follows a North Korean agent and a South Korean official who must work together to prevent a nuclear war. It’s an intense action thriller filled with political intrigue and suspense.

The Drug King (2018)

Cast: Song Kang-ho, Jo Jung-suk, Bae Doona, Kim So-jin, and Kim Dae-myung
IMDb Rating: 6.2

“The Drug King” is about a small-time smuggler who rises to become a powerful drug lord in 1970s Korea. It’s a gripping crime drama that delves into his life and the consequences of his actions.

Alive (2020)

Cast: Yoo Ah-in, Park Shin-hye, Jeon Bae-soo, Lee Hyun-wook, and So Hee-jung
IMDb Rating: 6.3

“Alive” follows a gamer trapped in his apartment during a zombie apocalypse, a horror inducing action indeed. The main character struggles to survive, later discovers another survivor in the building, and together they fight to stay alive. There’d be a few jumpscares and zombies chasing in action.

The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure (2022)

Cast: Kang Ha-neul, Han Hyo-joo, Lee Kwang-soo, Kwon Sang-woo, and Chae Soo-bin
IMDb Rating: 6.0

“The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure” is a feel-good, adventurous tale of pirates searching for hidden royal treasure. It’s a fun and exciting journey filled with action, humor, and camaraderie.

Escape from Mogadishu (2021)

Cast: Kim Yoon-seok, Jo In-sung, Heo Joon-ho, Kim So-jin, and Jung Man-sik
IMDb Rating: 7.2

“Escape from Mogadishu” is based on a true story about diplomats from North and South Korea who must cooperate to escape civil war-torn Somalia. It’s a gripping and emotional action-drama. It also depicts the gory and greedy reality of political upheaval.

Seoul Vibe (2022)

Cast: Yoo Ah-in, Go Kyung-pyo, Lee Kyu-hyung, Park Ju-hyun, and Ong Seong-wu
IMDb Rating: 5.5

“Seoul Vibe” is set in the 1980s and follows a team of drivers and mechanics who get involved in a thrilling heist. It’s a fast-paced action film with a retro vibe, and not to mention, plenty of car chases.

Best Korean romantic movies on Netflix

20th Century Girl (2022)

Cast: Kim Ji-won, Kim Min-jae, Park Hyuk-kwon, Yoo In-hyuk, and Ye Soo-jung
IMDb Rating: 7.2

“20th Century Girl” is a heartwarming tale of a teen girl navigating life, love and friendship in modern day Seoul. The tinglings of young love and fresh awkwardness make the story so pure and coming-of-age. The story goes as she discovers the power of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of chasing her dreams.

Tune in for Love (2019)

Cast: Kim Go-eun, Jung Hae-in, Park Hae-joon, Kim Guk-hee, and Jung Yoo-jin
IMDb Rating: 7

“Tune in for Love” follows the love story of Mi-soo and Hyun-woo, who meet by chance in a bakery in 1994 and continue to cross paths over the years, yet can never seem to get together. Set against the backdrop of changing times and personal struggles, their relationship tests of fate and time.

Sweet & Sour (2021)

Cast: Jang Ki-yong, Chae Soo-bin, Krystal Jung, Lee Do-hyun, and Jeong Hae-gyoon
IMDb Rating: 6.5

“Sweet & Sour” explores the challenges of modern relationships through the ups and downs of a young couple, Jang-hyeok and Da-eun. As they navigate the challenges of work, distance, and personal growth, they learn valuable lessons about love, sacrifice, and the bittersweet nature of romance.

Love and Leashes (2022)

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Kim Da-mi, Jeon Yeo-been, Kang Ki-young, and Park Hyuk-kwon
IMDb Rating: 7.1

“Love and Leashes” tells the story of a quirky dog trainer who finds unexpected romance with a shy and introverted veterinarian. As they bond over their shared love for animals and end up having a contractual relationship, a reflection of modern dating, later navigate the joys and challenges of relationship dynamics.

On Your Wedding Day (2018)

Cast: Park Bo-young, Kim Young-kwang, Kang Ki-young, Ko Kyu-pil, Jang Sung-bum
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10

“On Your Wedding Day” is a nostalgic romantic comedy that follows the long and winding journey of two high school friends, Seung-hee and Woo-yeon, who reignite their feelings for one another on the wedding day. As the story follows, they face obstacles that threaten to keep them apart. Through laughter and tears, they learn that true love is worth fighting for.

Be With You (2018)

Cast: So Ji-sub, Son Ye-jin, Kim Ji-hwan, Ko Chang-seok, and Lee You-jin
IMDb Rating: 7.6

“Be With You” is a poignant tale of love and loss that goes beyond time. After the sudden death of his wife, Woo-jin is left to raise their young son alone. But when his late wife miraculously returns during the rainy season, they have a chance to be together again, for a short period of time, and rediscover the love they once shared.

The Beauty Inside (2015)

Cast: Han Hyo-joo, Park Seo-joon, Juri Ueno, Lee Dong-wook, and Seo Kang-joon
IMDb Rating: 7.5

“The Beauty Inside” follows the unconventional love story of a woman who wakes up in a different body every day and the man who falls in love with her regardless of her outward appearance. As they navigate the challenges of her condition, they learn valuable lessons about acceptance, identity, and the true nature of love.

Something in the Rain (2018)

Cast: Son Ye-jin, Jung Hae-in, Jang So-yeon, Jung Yoo-jin, and Wi Ha-joon
IMDb Rating: 7.9

“Something in the Rain” is a heartfelt drama that explores the forbidden romance between Yoon Jin-ah, a career woman in her thirties who has never dated a considerate partner, and Seo Joon-hee, her best friend’s younger brother. As they navigate societal expectations, they discover the depth of their feelings for each other.

One Spring Night (2019)

Cast: Han Ji-min, Jung Hae-in, Kim Jun-han, Im Sung-eon, and Joo Min-kyung
IMDb Rating: 7.8

“One Spring Night” follows the blossoming romance between Lee Jung-in, a librarian in her thirties, and Yoo Ji-ho, a pharmacist and single father. As they confront the complexities of their past and indulge in a secret relationship, they find peace and support in each other’s presence, beyond the societal complexities.

Romance Is a Bonus Book (2019)

Cast: Lee Jong-suk, Lee Na-young, Jung Yoo-jin, Wi Ha-joon, and Kim Tae-woo
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10

“Romance Is a Bonus Book” is a charming romantic comedy that follows the relationship between a successful writer and his childhood friend, who joins as his younger colleague despite having a great professional career in the past, a single mother. As they navigate the ups and downs of their careers and personal lives, they discover that love can be found in the most unexpected places.

Best Korean Thriller movies on Netflix

The Chase (2017)

Cast: Baek Yoon-sik, Sung Dong-il, Chun Ho-jin, Son Jong-hak, Bae Jong-ok
IMDb Rating: 6.5

“The Chase” revolves around a grumpy landlord and a retired detective who team up to catch a serial killer terrorizing their neighborhood, to unveil the cases closed for 30 years. It’s a gripping crime thriller with suspense and dark humor.

Unlocked (2023)

Cast: Jung-woo Ha, Tae-hyun Cha, Yu Hae-Jin, and Yoon-Seok Kim
IMDb Rating: 6.4

“Unlocked” follows the journey of a woman facing cyber-crime and security as she loses her mobile phone. She learns that the hacker is watching her every move as she makes her way through a maze of danger and deception.

Lucid Dream (2017)

Cast: Go Soo, Sol Kyung-gu, Park Yoo-chun
IMDb Rating: 6.2

In “Lucid Dream,” a father embarks on a desperate quest to find his kidnapped son from 3 years ago using a groundbreaking technique that allows him to enter his dreams, the lucid dreams. As he delves deeper into his subconscious, he uncovers shocking secrets that lead him closer to the truth.

Forgotten (2017)

Cast: Kang Ha-neul, Kim Mu-yeol, and Moon Sung-keun
IMDb Rating: 7.5

Description: “Forgotten” follows the story of a young man who loses his memory after being abducted for 19 days. As he struggles to piece together his past, his brother uncovers dark secrets that make him forget his whole life and act differently.

Time to Hunt (2020)

Cast: Lee Je-hoon, Ahn Jae-hong, Choi Woo-shik
IMDb Rating: 6.7

In a dystopian future, a group of friends plans a heist to escape their bleak reality. However, their plan doesn’t go well as expected, as they attract the attention of a relentless killer who will stop at nothing to hunt them down.

The Call (2020)

Cast: Park Shin-hye, Jeon Jong-seo
IMDb Rating: 6.7

“The Call” explores the consequences of altering the past when a woman receives a phone call from the past and changes the course of history. As she tries to fix her mistakes, a serial killer puts her life on line so that the life consequences could be altered.

Pandora (2016)

Cast: Kim Nam-gil, Kim Joo-hyun, and Jung Jin-young
IMDb Rating: 6.5

“Pandora” tells the story of a nuclear disaster that devastates a small Korean town. As the residents struggle to survive in the aftermath, they navigate the hardships of survival and make life decisions.

Yaksha: Ruthless Operations (2022)

Cast: Kim Kang-woo, Heo Sung-tae, and Yoo In-young
IMDb Rating: N/A

Description: “Yaksha: Ruthless Operations” follows the story of a righteous prosecutor who later gets involved in a spy-war among various Asian investigators.

Ballerina (2023)

Cast: KM-Jang Yoon Ju.jpg, Park Geun-Jeong, Park Se-Jun, Choi Byung-Yoon, Kim Woo-Hyun
IMDb Rating: 6.2

After finding her best friend dead in a vicious way, she discovers her best friend’s last wish to take revenge on a sex trafficker, as he had sexually exploited her. Determined to honor her friend, Ok-ju tracks down Choi Pro online, finds his address, and starts following him.

Oldboy (2003)

Cast: Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, and Kang Hye-jung
IMDb Rating: 8.3

“Oldboy” is a dark and twisted tale of revenge and redemption. After being mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years, a man seeks vengeance against those responsible for his captivity. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers shocking truths that change his life forever.

Best Korean Crime movies on Netflix

Memories of Murder (2003)

Cast: Song Kang-ho, Kim Sang-kyung, Kim Roe-ha
IMDb Rating: 8.1

Set in 1980s South Korea, this gripping crime drama follows two detectives as they investigate a series of brutal murders in a rural town. As they struggle to catch the serial killer, they face increasing pressure from the public and their own personal demons, leading to a haunting exploration of obsession, corruption, and the dark side of human nature.

Lady Vengeance (2005)

Cast: Lee Young-ae, Choi Min-sik, and Kwon Yea-young
IMDb Rating: 7.6

After being wrongfully imprisoned for a crime she didn’t commit, a woman seeks revenge against those responsible for her confinement. As she strategically plots her vengeance, she confronts her own capacity for violence and the moral complexities of justice in this visually stunning and emotionally resonant thriller.

The Villainess (2017)

Cast: Kim Ok-bin, Shin Ha-kyun, and Bang Sung-jun
IMDb Rating: 6.7

Trained as a deadly assassin from a young age, Sook-hee is recruited by a secret government agency to carry out covert missions. But when her past catches up with her and threatens to destroy everything she holds dear, she embarks on a relentless journey for redemption.

I Saw the Devil (2010)

Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Choi Min-sik, Jeon Kuk-hwan
IMDb Rating: 7.8

When a sadistic serial killer brutally murders his fiancée, a special agent vows to track down the perpetrator and exact his own twisted form of justice. As he falls into a harrowing game of cat and mouse with the killer, he clashes with the moral implications of his actions and the darkness that has embarked within him.

The Gangster, the Cop, and the Devil (2019)

Cast: Ma Dong-seok, Kim Mu-yeol, and Kim Sung-kyu
IMDb Rating: 6.9

In this gritty crime thriller, a hardened gangster forms an unlikely alliance with a relentless police detective to track down a ruthless serial killer who has been targeting criminals. As they close in on their prey, they must navigate a treacherous underworld of violence and betrayal, where alliances are fleeting and survival is uncertain.

Best Korean comedy movies on Netflix

The Bros (2017)

Cast: Ma Dong-seok, Lee Dong-hwi, and Lee Hanee
IMDb Rating: 6.1

Two estranged brothers reunite for their father’s funeral, but their reunion is anything but peaceful. As they navigate family secrets, old grudges, and their own personal struggles, they find themselves on a hilarious and heartfelt journey of reconciliation and self-discovery.

Miss Granny (2014)

Cast: Shim Eun-kyung, Na Moon-hee, and Park In-hwan
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10

Synopsis: A 74-year-old grandmother miraculously transforms into her 20-year-old self after visiting a mysterious photo studio. Seizing this second chance at youth, she embarks on a journey to fulfill her long-forgotten dreams, navigating the challenges and joys of her newfound life with humor and heart.

What Happened to Mr. Cha? (2021)

Cast: Cha In-pyo, Song Jae-ryong, and Jo Dal-hwan
IMDb Rating: 4.8

Once a beloved movie star, Mr. Cha now finds himself out of the limelight and struggling to revive his career. When an unexpected incident leaves him trapped and forces him to confront his past, he embarks on a comedic and touching journey to rediscover his true self and regain his former glory.

Hello Ghost (2010)

Cast: Cha Tae-hyun, Kang Ye-won, Lee Moon-su
IMDb Rating: 7.6

After a failed suicide attempt, a lonely man discovers he can see ghosts who refuse to leave him alone until he helps them fulfill their last wishes. Through this quirky and heartwarming adventure, he learns valuable lessons about life, love, and the importance of human connections.

Scandal Makers (2008)

Cast: Kim Ha Neul, Rain, Jung Gyu Woon, Seo Yi Sook, Yoon Je Moon, and Ki Eun Se
IMDb Rating: 7.2

The film follows a former teen idol who suddenly finds himself thrust into fatherhood when a young woman and her son appear at his doorstep, claiming to be his family. The film masterfully blends humor with themes of love and responsibility, making it a beloved classic.

Best Korean dramatic movies

Silenced (2011)

Cast: Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Kim Hyeon-soo, Kim Jee-young
IMDb Rating: 8.1

In a Korean school for the hearing-impaired, a dark truth lies hidden. Young students become victims of repeated sexual abuse by faculty members. Enter In-ho, a dedicated new art teacher, who stumbles upon their suffering. Alongside a persistent human rights activist, they embark on a relentless fight for justice.

However, powerful figures seek to silence them, revealing the corrupt network protecting the perpetrators. This harrowing drama lays bare the vulnerability of the voiceless and the courage required to confront those in power.

High Society (2018)

Cast: Park Hae-il, Soo Ae, Kim Gyu-Sun, Lee Jin-wook
IMDb Rating: 5.6

A rising star curator at a prestigious art gallery.as they navigate through an elite korean society, Young-woo craves influence and Hye-jin yearns for recognition. But their climb to the top isn’t for the faint of heart. Get ready for a story where ambition fuels some questionable tactics, with manipulation and seduction becoming their tools of the trade.

Burning (2018)

Cast: Yoo Ah-in, Steven Yeun, Jeon Jong-seo
IMDb Rating: 8.1

A lonely writer, Lee Jong-su, encounters the enigmatic Shin Hae-mi. Their connection sparks, but then Hae-mi vanishes without a trace. As Jong-su searches for answers, the arrival of the wealthy Ben adds another layer of mystery. Reality and suspicion blur as Jong-su delves deeper, questioning everything he thought he knew.

The Fortress (2017)

Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Kim Yoon-seok, Park Bo-gum Choi Min-sik (uncredited)
IMDb Rating: 7.3

Facing a brutal invasion, King Injo seeks refuge in the isolated Namhansanseong Fortress. The film follows the valiant defense led by the seasoned General Choi Young-jin and his resourceful deputy Kim Sang-heon.

With dwindling resources and a relentless enemy at their gate, the brave defenders must find the courage and resilience to hold the line and protect their king and country. Additionally, you can also read about- Best Korean Gangster Movies.

Kim Ji-young: Born 1982 (2019)

Cast: Jung Yu-mi, Gong Yoo, Kim Mi-kyung
IMDb Rating: 7.3

Kim Ji-young, an ordinary woman in her 30s, starts exhibiting strange behavior. She seems to be possessed by the spirits of her mother, grandmother, and other women in her life, voicing their frustrations and experiences. As the film explores Ji-young’s life through flashbacks, we witness the subtle gender biases and societal pressures faced by Korean women throughout different generations.

Best Korean Sci-Fi Movies on Netflix

Jung_E (2023)

Cast: Kang Soo-yeon, Kim Hyun-joo, Ryu Kyung-soo
IMDb Rating: 6.7

Humanity waged war on a devastated Earth in a post-apocalyptic future due to climate change. A corporation attempts to clone the brain of a deceased elite soldier, Yun Seo-hyun (Kang Soo-yeon), to create a powerful AI combat warrior named Jung_E. Her daughter, Seo-hyun (Kim Hyun-joo), becomes entangled in the project, raising ethical questions about human experimentation and the cost of war.

Psychokinesis (2018)

Cast: Ryu Seung-ryong, Jung Yu-mi, and Shim Eun-kyung.
IMDb Rating: 6.7

Shin Suk-hoon, a down-on-his-luck security guard, discovers he has telekinetic powers after drinking water contaminated by a mysterious substance. Initially using his newfound abilities for petty revenge, he soon finds himself embroiled in a conflict with a powerful construction company that’s exploiting his neighborhood.

With the help of his estranged daughter, Shin Hye-jin, Suk-hoon must decide how to use his powers – for personal gain or to fight for justice and protect his community.

Illang: The Wolf Brigade (2018)

Cast: Gang Dong-won, Han Ji-wan, Jung Woo-sung
IMDb Rating: 5.9

Set in a dystopian future where Korea has been divided by a vast demilitarized zone, this action thriller follows the elite Wolf Brigade, a special forces unit tasked with high-risk missions across the border. When a daring mission goes wrong, the team uncovers a dangerous conspiracy that threatens the fragile peace between North and South Korea.

The Host (2006)

IMDb rating: 7.8
Cast: Song Kang-ho, Go Ah-sung, and Seo Dong-soo.

When a monstrous creature emerges, throwing the city into chaos, an ordinary family is thrust into a desperate struggle. The beast kidnaps their young daughter, leaving the determined father, Gang-du, with an unwavering resolve to bring her back.

Despite societal indifference and bureaucratic roadblocks, Gang-du embarks on a relentless quest to save his daughter. This harrowing journey showcases the immense power of a father’s love.

Space Sweepers (2021)

Cast: Song Joong-ki, Kim Tae-ri, Jin Seon-kyu, Yoo Hae-jin
IMDb Rating: 6.5

The Victory Crew is a motley crew of space scavengers who make a living by recovering valuable cosmic debris in a future where pollution has choked Earth. Their routine mission takes a sharp turn when they discover a young girl, Alice, harboring a powerful military robot named Dorothy. Now, ruthless corporations and bounty hunters are pursuing the crew in a high-stakes chase across the galaxy.

And that wraps up the best Korean movies on Netflix you can binge-watch. These movies have got that spark that only Korean movies offer in a snap, with nonstop entertainment, unexpected plot twists, and, not to forget, the best casts.

References

Best Korean Movies To Stream On Netflix Ranked. (2023, November 22). Screen Rant. Retrieved June 4, 2024, from https://screenrant.com/best-korean-movies-on-netflix-ranked/
Forward, D., Tygiel, Y., Lane, C., Gaughan, L., Block, M., & Djuricic, A. (2024, March 30). 18 Best Korean Movies on Netflix (March 2024). Collider. Retrieved June 4, 2024, from https://collider.com/best-korean-movies-on-netflix/
Hajimirsadeghi, A. (2023, January 31). Best Korean Crime Movies, Ranked. Movie Web. Retrieved June 6, 2024, from https://movieweb.com/korean-crime-movies/
Kim, A. (2024, May 27). 24 Best Korean Movies on Netflix in June 2024. FluentU. Retrieved June 6, 2024, from https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/korean-movies-netflix/
LeGardye, Q. (2023, June 1). The 35 Best Korean Movies on Netflix in 2024. Marie Claire. Retrieved June 4, 2024, from https://www.marieclaire.com/culture/a32236619/best-korean-movies-netflix/
Truffaut, O., Sullivan, C., & Sanders, C. (2024, January 8). 30 Best Korean Thriller Movies on Netflix 2024. Cosmopolitan. Retrieved June 6, 2024, from https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/movies/g40231345/korean-thrillers-on-netflix/